The UK has a lot of history of strife, whether it is the Roman Invasion, the Norman Conquest, the War of the Roses, or our involvement in two World Wars. As a result, there are plenty of museums, historical sites, battlefields, and other attractions to commemorate it. Many of them are worth a visit. Perhaps surprisingly, you can find a significant battlefield in North London. We want to have a look at it today because it is an interesting piece of local history and has an impact on development in the area. Then, if you need a lettings agent in Barnet to manage your assets, you can speak to us.
An interesting location
The battlefield in question is in Monken Hadley. The ancient village is now a suburb of Barnet, and is just to the north of the High Street. It retains much of its rural character. Part of this is because of the protection it gains from being on Historic England’s National Heritage List.
A key battle and the aftermath
The Battle of Barnet in 1471 was one of the most important engagements during the War of the Roses. This conflict saw a series of civil wars between the royal houses of York and Lancaster. It was one of the most significant periods of English history, leading to the creation of the Tudor Dynasty.
The battle took place on Easter Sunday, 14th April. It saw the House of York forces battle the House of Lancaster army led by Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick. He is one of the most significant figures from this period, given the nickname “Kingmaker”. Previously a Yorkist, the earl defected because of disagreements with King Edward IV. He would lead the Lancaster forces here, but was killed during the fighting.
There are some really interesting details about the battle itself. The forces met at dawn when visibility was poor and there was thick fog. This worked in the Yorkist’s favour, leading the Lancaster forces to attack their own men in error.
Ultimately, Edward IV was victorious and was king for 12 years before his death in 1483. His son Edward V was only on the throne for a short time though, before Richard III ascended. He in turn was the final York king. Henry VII, the first Tudor King, took the crown in 1485.
The area
Finefair Ltd is proud to offer fantastic services all over London, including as a lettings agent in Barnet. The fact this part of North London has a registered battlefield is really important. It means there is protection in place to restrict development. Much of the area is also Green Belt. As a result, new housing developments are rare. This can make the current properties fantastic assets.
The fact there is protection against development is also great news here because you can get a feel for the events of the battle. Much of the land was open pasture and heath. Early on a foggy morning you can see how visibility became such an issue. The golf course is a particularly good spot in this regards because it is still open. There are also a number of viewpoints.
There is a monument for the battle in the centre of Monken Hadley. It dates back to the 18th century.
Do you need help from a lettings agent in Barnet?
If you need any help with assets in the area, including in Monken Hadley, we’d be happy to help. You can contact us for information about everything we do here. Services can include management, arranging tenancies, and guaranteed rent.
